Vassar considers removal of Cass River dam in favor of canoe launch

VASSAR — City leaders would like to construct a canoe/kayak launch on the Cass River but there's a dam in the way.

The Cass River dam has no function other than being an eyesore, City Manager Julius Suchy told council members Monday.

The city owns all the adjacent property and would like to locate a launch upstream from the dam, but without its removal, there are safety concerns.

"The dam as it is currently is not really a dam," Suchy said. "It's more of a pile of concrete in the river with rebar sticking out over the water. It is unsafe for those who wish to use the river for recreational purposes and is an eyesore for those traveling along the rail trail or M-15 through Vassar."

Suchy said he contacted Michelle Vander Haar, a biologist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to see if it was possible.

"She indicated there would likely be grant money to assist with the removal of the dam," Suchy said, and estimated the cost at about $50,000-$75,000.

"It would behoove us to remove it," said Mayor Shirley Seney. "Someone could get hurt."

The council voted to move forward with the project.

"Any grant will likely require a few public input sessions," Suchy said. "The grant Michelle applied for would provide the city with $25,000 and the city would have five years to find matching funds through other sources or match it with general fund money.